100 percent of California in state of drought

A newly released assessment shows for the first time in 15 years, 100 percent of the state of California is in some state of drought, ranging from moderate to exceptional.

In the Coachella Valley people are doing their part to conserve water.

At his Rancho La Quinta home, Brad Harmeyer is proud to show off his courtyard and the side of his home.

He recently had 600 square feet of artificial grass installed around cement tiles.
The cost — $8,000 — is money he sees as being well spent.

“The math added up because I think the artificial turf will probably last anywhere from 8 to 15 years, and if you factor in the gardening and watering bills,” said Harmeyer.

He added, since having Back Nine Greens in Palm Desert rip up his natural grass and replace it with artificial turf, his gardener has come down on his rate since the grass no longer has to be replanted, and he expects the cost of his water bills to decrease dramatically.

All five local water agencies have rebate programs for installing artificial turf or desert landscaping. A joint website has been set up where customers can go for information. www.cvwatercounts.com.